Current collector, battery cell, battery pack and vehicle comprising same

Abstract

A battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: an electrode assembly in which a first electrode and a second electrode and a separator interposed therebetween are wound around a winding axis to define a core and an outer circumferential surface, the first electrode comprising a first non-coated portion which is not coated with an active material layer along the winding direction; a battery housing having an opening on one side thereof and accommodating the electrode assembly through the opening; and a current collector comprising a support portion disposed on the top of the electrode assembly, a tab coupling portion extending from the support portion and coupled to the first non-coated portion, and a housing coupling portion extending from the support portion and electrically coupled to an inner surface of the battery housing, wherein a fracture portion having lower strength than the surrounding area is provided at the boundary between the support portion and the tab coupling portion.

Description

Household appliances, battery cells, battery packs and vehicles containing them

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack, a battery cell, and a vehicle including the same.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0077637, filed on June 16, 2023, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the said application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0030857, filed on March 4, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the said application are incorporated by reference into this application.

[0004] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0067269, filed on May 23, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of the said application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0005] Secondary batteries, which boast high electrical properties such as high energy density and high applicability across a wide range of product categories, are widely used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electrical power sources. These batteries not only offer the primary advantage of dramatically reducing fossil fuel use but also produce no byproducts from energy use, attracting attention as a new energy source for environmental friendliness and energy efficiency.

[0006] Currently, widely used types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these unit secondary battery cells, i.e., unit battery cells, is approximately 2.5 V to 4.5 V. Therefore, when a higher output voltage is required, multiple battery cells are connected in series to form a battery pack. Furthermore, depending on the charge / discharge capacity required for the battery pack, a number of battery cells are connected in parallel to form a battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be set in various ways depending on the required output voltage and / or charge / discharge capacity.

[0007] Meanwhile, if thermal management is not done properly in the battery cell, a phenomenon called thermal runaway can occur, which is a state in which the electrochemical cell heats itself in an uncontrollable manner, changing its environment in a way that further accelerates the temperature change.

[0008] The present invention provides a battery cell in which a flame generated inside the battery cell when a thermal runaway occurs can be smoothly discharged.

[0009] Furthermore, the present invention prevents damage to the beading portion of a battery cell when thermal runaway occurs.

[0010] The present invention prevents the occurrence of a pinhole phenomenon in the beading portion of a battery cell when thermal runaway occurs.

[0011] However, the technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a battery cell comprises an electrode assembly in which a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator interposed therebetween are wound around a winding axis to define a core and an outer circumferential surface, wherein the first electrode includes a first non-coated portion on which an active material layer is not coated along a winding direction; a battery housing having an opening at one side and accommodating the electrode assembly through the opening; a current collector including a support portion disposed on an upper portion of the electrode assembly, a tab coupling portion extending from the support portion and coupled to the first non-coated portion, and a housing coupling portion extending from the support portion and electrically coupled to an inner surface of the battery housing, wherein a fracture portion configured to have a lower strength than a peripheral region is provided at a boundary between the support portion and the tab coupling portion.

[0013] For example, the above-mentioned fracture portion includes a notch line including a plurality of notches.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the collector may include a through hole configured to penetrate the collector.

[0015] For example, the through hole may be located on the notch line.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the through hole may be located at the center of the boundary between the support portion and the tab joint portion.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one through hole may be provided on the support member.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one through hole may be provided on the tab joint.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the notch line may be configured to have a curved shape.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the tab coupling portion may be configured to have a wider width than the housing coupling portion.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first non-conductive portion and the tab-joining portion can be joined by welding along the radial direction of the electrode assembly.

[0022] For example, a welding bead may be formed between the first blank portion and the tab joint portion.

[0023] At this time, the welding bead can form a welding pattern having a straight shape extending along the radial direction of the electrode assembly.

[0024] Here, the welding pattern is configured to be perpendicular to the notch line.

[0025] For example, the tab joint may be positioned lower than the lower surface of the beading portion.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the present invention comprises a current collector, a support portion disposed on an upper portion of an electrode assembly, a tab coupling portion extending from the support portion and electrically coupled to the electrode assembly, and a housing coupling portion extending from the support portion and electrically coupled to an inner surface of a battery housing in which the electrode assembly is accommodated, wherein a fracture portion configured to have a lower strength than a surrounding area may be provided at a boundary between the support portion and the tab coupling portion.

[0027] Alternatively, the present invention provides a battery pack comprising at least one battery cell according to the above-described embodiment.

[0028] In addition, the present invention provides a vehicle including at least one battery pack according to the above-described embodiment.

[0029] The present invention also provides a battery module comprising at least one battery cell according to the above-described embodiment.

[0030] The present invention is an energy storage system comprising at least one battery module according to the above-described embodiment.

[0031] According to another embodiment, a battery cell of the present invention comprises an electrode assembly in which a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator interposed therebetween are wound around a winding axis to define a core and an outer circumferential surface, wherein the first electrode includes an electrode assembly including a first non-coated portion on which an active material layer is not coated along a winding direction; a battery housing having an opening at one side thereof and accommodating the electrode assembly through the opening; a current collector including a support portion disposed on an upper portion of the electrode assembly, a tab coupling portion extending from the support portion and coupled to the first non-coated portion, and a housing coupling portion extending from the support portion and electrically coupled to an inner surface of the battery housing, wherein the current collector is provided with a channel or path through which a flame can be discharged to the outside when thermal runaway occurs in the electrode assembly.

[0032] For example, the passage includes a fracture portion configured to have a lower strength than the surrounding area at the boundary between the support portion and the tab joint portion, and the fracture portion includes a notch line including a plurality of notches.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal runaway occurs, a flame generated inside a battery cell can be smoothly discharged.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the present invention, damage to the beading portion of a battery cell can be effectively prevented when thermal runaway occurs.

[0035] For example, the present invention can prevent a pinhole phenomenon from occurring in the beading portion of a battery cell when thermal runaway occurs.

[0036] However, the effects that can be obtained through the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and other technical effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the invention described below.

[0037] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention described below, serve to further understand the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to matters described in such drawings.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional perspective view of Figure 1.

[0040] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the battery cell of Figure 1.

[0041] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a housing according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a housing according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a housing according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a housing according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a housing according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a housing according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 10 is a drawing for explaining a case where thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell to which a conventional collector is applied.

[0048] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining a case in which thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining another case in which thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining another case in which thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 14 is a drawing for explaining a battery pack including a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle including the battery pack of FIG. 14.

[0053] In some of the accompanying drawings, corresponding components are designated by the same reference numerals. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the drawings illustrate elements simply and clearly and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, to facilitate understanding of various embodiments, the dimensions of some elements depicted in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements. Furthermore, elements of known technology that are useful or essential in commercially feasible embodiments may often not be depicted so as not to obscure the spirit of various embodiments of the present invention.

[0054] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, it should be noted that terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as limited to their typical or dictionary meanings, and should be interpreted with meanings and concepts that conform to the technical spirit of the present invention based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of a term to best explain his or her invention. Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are only some of the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical spirit of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modified examples may exist as of the time of this application.

[0055] Additionally, to facilitate understanding of the invention, the attached drawings are not drawn to scale and some components may have exaggerated dimensions. Furthermore, identical components may be assigned the same reference numbers in different embodiments.

[0056] The statement that two compared objects are identical means "substantially identical." Therefore, "substantially identical" may include deviations considered low in the art, such as deviations of less than 5%. Furthermore, uniformity of a parameter over a given region may also mean uniformity on average.

[0057] Although terms like "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, a "first" component may also be a "second" component.

[0058] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0059] Any configuration being placed "on (or below)" or "above (or below)" a component may mean not only that any configuration is placed in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of said component, but also that other configurations may intervene between said component and any configuration placed on (or below) said component.

[0060] Additionally, when it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly connected or connected to one another, but that other components may also be "interposed" between the components, or that each component may be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" through another component.

[0061] Throughout the specification, when we refer to "A and / or B", this means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated, and when we refer to "C through D", this means C or more and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0062] As used herein, the terms "about," "approximately," and "substantially" are used to mean a range or approximation of a numerical value or degree, taking into account inherent manufacturing and material tolerances, and are used to prevent infringers from unfairly exploiting the disclosure, which includes precise or absolute numerical values ​​provided to aid understanding of the present invention.

[0063] For convenience of explanation, in this specification, the direction along the longitudinal direction of the winding axis of the electrode assembly (10) wound in the form of a jelly roll is referred to as the axial direction (Y). In addition, the direction surrounding the winding axis is referred to as the circumferential direction or the peripheral direction (X). In addition, the direction approaching or away from the winding axis is referred to as the radial direction. Among these, the direction approaching the winding axis is referred to as the centripetal direction, and the direction away from the winding axis is referred to as the centrifugal direction.

[0064] When thermal runaway occurs in a secondary battery, pinholes may form on the side of the battery cell. In this case, the resulting thermal runaway can directly damage nearby battery cells, potentially causing them to explode and ignite in a chain reaction. Therefore, the frequency of pinhole occurrences needs to be reduced.

[0065] In addition, considering that the frequency of pinholes occurring in the beading section is high when thermal runaway occurs, the flame of the explosion cannot smoothly escape to the venting section when thermal runaway occurs, but instead is directed to the side, and thus the flame directly contacts the nearby beading section, causing pinholes. Therefore, the present invention provides a structure of an electrode assembly that allows the flame to smoothly escape.

[0066] For example, a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present invention is provided with a channel or path through which the flame of an explosion can smoothly escape to a venting portion when a thermal runaway occurs.

[0067]

[0068] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional perspective view of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the battery cell (1) of FIG. 1.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes an electrode assembly (10), a battery housing (20), and a current collector (30). The battery cell (1) may further include a housing cover (40). The present invention is not limited by the shape of the battery, and is applicable to batteries of other shapes, such as square batteries.

[0070]

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the electrode assembly (10) includes a first non-coated portion (11) and a second non-coated portion (12). For example, the electrode assembly (10) according to one embodiment has a winding structure, and has a structure in which the first electrode and the second electrode and the separator interposed therebetween are wound around a winding axis with a separator interposed therebetween, thereby defining a core and an outer circumferential surface. That is, the electrode assembly (10) applied to the present invention may be a jelly-roll type electrode assembly (10). In this case, an additional separator may be provided on the outer circumferential surface of the electrode assembly (10) for insulation from the battery housing (20).

[0072] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first electrode includes a first electrode current collector and a first electrode active material applied on one or both surfaces of the first electrode current collector. At one end of the first electrode in the width direction (parallel to the height direction of the battery cell (1) illustrated in FIG. 1), there is a non-coated portion on which the first electrode active material is not applied. That is, the first electrode includes a non-coated portion on the long side end along the winding direction in which the active material is not coated and which is exposed to the outside of the separator. The non-coated portion that functions as a first electrode tab is hereinafter referred to as a first non-coated portion (11). The first non-coated portion (11) is provided above the height direction (parallel to the height direction of the battery cell (1) illustrated in FIG. 1) of the electrode assembly (10) accommodated in the battery housing (20). That is, the first electrode includes a first non-conductive portion (11) that is not coated with an active material layer on a long end and is exposed to the outside of the separator, and at least a portion of the first non-conductive portion (11) is used as an electrode tab in itself. The first non-conductive portion (11) may be, for example, a negative electrode tab.

[0073] Meanwhile, at least a portion of the first non-woven portion (11) may include a plurality of segments divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly (10). In this case, the plurality of segments may be bent along the radial direction of the electrode assembly (10).

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of segments of the first non-woven portion (11) may be overlapped in multiple layers to form a folded surface. In this case, a tab-joining portion (32) of a current collector (30) to be described later may be coupled on the folded surface. The tab-joining portion (32) may be coupled to an area where a plurality of segments are overlapped in multiple layers. In this case, welding may be performed on a certain area while the tab-joining portion (32) is seated on the folded surface of the first non-woven portion (11). That is, the tab-joining portion (32) may be coupled to an area where a plurality of segments of the first non-woven portion (11) are overlapped in multiple layers. For example, as can be seen in FIG. 5, the tab joint (32) may have at least one welded portion welded to a certain area while being seated on the folded surface of the first blank portion (11).

[0075] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the second electrode includes a second electrode current collector and a second electrode active material applied on one or both surfaces of the second electrode current collector. At the other end of the second electrode in the width direction (parallel to the height direction of the battery cell (1) illustrated in FIG. 1), there is a non-coated portion on which the second electrode active material is not applied. That is, the second electrode includes a non-coated portion on a long side along the winding direction that is not coated with an active material and is exposed to the outside of the separator. The non-coated portion that functions as a second electrode tab is hereinafter referred to as a second non-coated portion (12). For example, the second non-coated portion (12) is provided at a lower portion in the height direction of the electrode assembly (10) accommodated in the battery housing (20). That is, the second electrode includes a second non-coated portion (12) on a long side that is not coated with an active material layer and is exposed to the outside of the separator, and at least a portion of the second non-coated portion (12) is used as an electrode tab in and of itself. The above second non-conductive part (12) may be, for example, a positive electrode tab.

[0076] Meanwhile, in the present invention, the positive electrode active material coated on the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode active material coated on the negative electrode plate can be used without limitation as long as they are active materials known in the art.

[0077]

[0078] Referring to FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the battery housing (20) is a roughly cylindrical receiver having an opening formed on one side, and is made of a conductive metal material. The side surface of the battery housing (20) and the lower surface located opposite the opening are typically formed as one piece. That is, the battery housing (20) typically has an open upper portion in the height direction and a closed lower portion. The lower surface of the battery housing (20) may have a roughly flat shape. The battery housing (20) accommodates an electrode assembly (10) through an opening formed on one side in the height direction. The battery housing (20) may also accommodate an electrolyte through the open portion.

[0079] For example, the battery housing (20) has a beading portion (21) formed at an end adjacent to an opening provided at the top of the battery housing (20). The battery housing (20) further has a crimping portion (22) formed on the beading portion (21). The beading portion (21) has a shape in which the outer peripheral surface of the battery housing (20) is pressed in to a predetermined depth. Alternatively, the beading portion (21) may have a shape in which it is pressed inward in a region between the opening formed at one side of the battery housing (20) and the receiving portion that receives the electrode assembly (10).

[0080] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the beading portion (21) is formed on the upper portion of the electrode assembly (10). The inner diameter of the battery housing (20) in the area where the beading portion (21) is formed is formed to be smaller than the diameter of the electrode assembly (10). At least one tab-joining portion (32) of the current collector (30) to be described later may be located lower than the beading portion (21). Alternatively, the tab-joining portion (32) may be located lower than the lower surface of the beading portion (21).

[0081] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the beading portion (21) provides a support surface on which the housing cover (40) can be seated. In addition, the beading portion (21) may provide a support surface on which at least a portion of the edge perimeter of the current collector (30), which will be described later, can be seated and coupled. That is, at least a portion of the edge perimeter of the current collector (30) of the present invention and / or the edge perimeter of the housing cover (40) can be seated on the upper surface of the beading portion (21). In order to stably support at least a portion of the edge perimeter of the current collector (30) and / or the edge perimeter of the housing cover (40), the upper surface of the beading portion (21) may have a shape that extends along a direction substantially parallel to the lower surface of the battery housing (20), that is, along a direction substantially perpendicular to the side wall of the battery housing (20).

[0082] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the beading portion (21) prevents the electrode assembly (10), which may have a size roughly corresponding to the inner diameter of the battery housing (20), from coming out through the opening formed at the upper end of the battery housing (20), and may function as a support portion (31) on which the housing cover (40) is seated. The upper beading portion (21) may function as a support portion (31) for fixing not only the housing cover (40) but also the contact portion of the current collector (30), the sealing gasket (G1), etc.

[0083] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the crimping portion (22) is formed on the upper portion of the beading portion (21). The crimping portion (22) has an extended and banded shape so as to wrap around the edge of the housing cover (40) positioned on the upper portion of the beading portion (21). Due to the shape of the crimping portion (22), the housing cover (40) is fixed on the beading portion (21).

[0084]

[0085] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, a current collector (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention is accommodated inside a battery housing (20), is electrically connected to an electrode assembly (10), and is also electrically connected to the battery housing (20). That is, the current collector (30) electrically connects the electrode assembly (10) and the battery housing (20).

[0086]

[0087] Fig. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a current collector (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a current collector (30) according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figs. 6 to 9 are perspective views illustrating a current collector (30) according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 7, the current collector (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a support portion (31) positioned on one surface of the electrode assembly (10), a tab coupling portion (32) extending from the support portion (31) and coupled to the first non-conductive portion (11), and a housing coupling portion (33) extending from the support portion (31) and coupled to the inner surface of the battery housing (20).

[0089]

[0090] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to FIGS. 4 to 9, a fracture portion (34) configured to have lower strength than the surrounding area may be provided at the boundary between the support portion (31) and the tab joint portion (32). That is, the fracture portion (34) may be configured to be structurally weaker than the surrounding area. For example, the fracture portion (34) may be configured to have a thickness smaller than the surrounding area. Alternatively, the fracture portion (34) may be configured to have a density smaller than the surrounding area. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fracture portion (34) may include, for example, a notch line (NL) including a plurality of notches or may include a through hole (HC).

[0091] In this way, according to a structure in which a fracture portion (34) is provided at the boundary between the support portion (31) and the tab joint portion (32) according to one embodiment of the present invention, when a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs inside the battery cell (1) and a flame is emitted, strong pressure is applied to the fracture portion (34), so that a fracture may occur at the fracture portion (34) portion. Accordingly, the support portion (31) of the current collector (30) may be separated from the tab joint portion (32). That is, when a flame is emitted inside the battery cell (1), the fracture portion (34) may be fractured, and the tab joint portion (32) of the current collector (30) may be separated. As a result, the flame generated inside the battery cell (1) due to the fracture of the fracture portion (34) portion may be smoothly discharged to the outside.

[0092] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 9, the current collector (30) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a through hole (HC) configured to penetrate the current collector (30). The through hole (HC) may be configured in a circular shape as shown in FIG. 5, but the shape is not limited thereto. For example, the through hole (HC) may be configured in a polygonal shape of a triangle, a square, or other shape other than a circular shape. Through the through hole (HC), a flame generated inside the battery cell (1) can smoothly escape.

[0093] For example, when a thermal runaway phenomenon starts on the electrode assembly (10) side, since the current collector (30) is located on the upper side of the electrode assembly (10), the flame generated in the electrode assembly (10) is blocked by the current collector (30) according to the structure of the conventional battery cell (1) and cannot be smoothly discharged. Accordingly, there was a problem in that the flame moved toward the beading portion (21) located in the vicinity of the electrode assembly (10) and the current collector (30), causing a pinhole to be created in the beading portion (21). If a pinhole is formed in the beading portion (21), the possibility of directly damaging other battery cells (1) located around the battery cell (1) where the fire occurred increases. Ultimately, it becomes impossible to avoid the spread of the fire to other battery cells (1).

[0094] According to one embodiment of the present invention, since the current collector (30) is provided with a through hole (HC), a flame generated in the electrode assembly (10) can be discharged through the through hole (HC). Accordingly, the flame can be prevented from progressing toward the beading portion (21). Consequently, according to the present invention, the beading portion (21) can be prevented from being damaged by the flame. Alternatively, according to the present invention, the formation of pinholes in the beading portion (21) can be effectively prevented.

[0095]

[0096] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the through hole (HC) may be located on the notch line (NL) of the fracture portion (34). With this structure, since both the fracture portion (34) and the through hole (HC) are included, the strength of the boundary region between the support portion (31) and the tab joint portion (32) may be configured to be lower than the strength of the surrounding region, compared to a structure that includes only one of the two.

[0097] For example, referring to FIG. 5, since a through hole (HC) is provided on the current collector (30), venting gas and / or flame formed by thermal runaway, etc. on the electrode assembly (10) side can be smoothly discharged to the outside through the through hole (HC).

[0098] Referring to FIG. 5, according to one embodiment of the present invention, when the through hole (HC) is formed in the boundary area between the support part (31) and the tab coupling part (32), the material constituting the current collector (30) is removed in the area where the through hole (HC) is formed, so that the width of the connection portion constituting the boundary area between the support part (31) and the tab coupling part (32) can be reduced. Accordingly, the strength of the boundary area between the support part (31) and the tab coupling part (32) can be configured to be lower than the strength of the surrounding area. Accordingly, when venting gas formed by thermal runaway or the like on the electrode assembly (10) side is ejected upward, only the tab coupling part (32) can be separated and fall off. As a result, the flame generated in the electrode assembly (10) can be smoothly discharged through the empty space formed when the tab coupling part (32) falls off.

[0099] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to FIG. 5, when a notch line (NL) including a plurality of notches is formed in a boundary area between the support portion (31) and the tab coupling portion (32), the thickness and / or density of the current collector (30) becomes smaller in the area where the notches are formed, so that the strength of the boundary area between the support portion (31) and the tab coupling portion (32) can be configured to be lower than the strength of the surrounding area. Accordingly, when venting gas formed due to thermal runaway or the like on the electrode assembly (10) side is ejected upward, only the tab coupling portion (32) can be separated and fall off. As a result, a flame generated in the electrode assembly (10) can be smoothly discharged through the empty space formed by the tab coupling portion (32) falling off.

[0100]

[0101] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to FIG. 5, the through hole (HC) may be configured to be located at the center of the boundary between the support portion (31) and the tab coupling portion (32). That is, the connection portions of the boundary areas of the support portion (31) and the tab coupling portion (32) provided on both sides around the through hole (HC) may be configured to have the same width.

[0102] According to this structure, the connection portions of the boundary areas of the support portions (31) provided on both sides with the through hole (HC) as the center and the tab joint portion (32) are configured to have the same width, so that when the tab joint portion (32) is pressurized upward by the venting gas, the same force can be applied to each connection portion. As a result, since all the tab joint portions (32) are broken, it is possible to prevent the phenomenon in which only one connection portion is broken and the tab joint portion (32) is incompletely separated.

[0103]

[0104] According to another embodiment of the present invention, at least one through hole (HC) may be provided on the support member (31).

[0105] For example, referring to FIG. 6, a plurality of through holes (HC) may be provided on the support member (31) of the current collector (30). Meanwhile, the through holes (HC) may be configured in a circular shape, for example, but are not necessarily limited thereto. The through holes (HC) may be provided in a plurality along the periphery of the current collector hole (H2), for example. For example, FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment in which four through holes (HC) are provided along the periphery of the current collector hole (H2).

[0106] In this way, when the through hole (HC) is provided on the support (31), the venting gas and / or flame generated from the electrode assembly (10) can be smoothly discharged to the outside. That is, since the current collector (30) covers the upper part of the electrode assembly (10), in order for the gas and / or flame to be discharged from the electrode assembly (10), there must be a hole on the current collector (30) or the current collector (30) must be separated. At this time, according to one embodiment of the present invention, since a plurality of through holes (HC) are provided on the current collector (30), the gas and / or flame generated from the electrode assembly (10) can be smoothly discharged. In particular, the core-side region of the electrode assembly (10) is covered by the support (31) of the current collector (30), and when a plurality of through holes (HC) are provided on the support (31), the venting gas and / or flame generated in the core-side region of the electrode assembly (10) can be smoothly discharged upward.

[0107]

[0108] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one through hole (HC) may be provided on the tab joint (32).

[0109] For example, referring to Fig. 7, the through holes (HC) may be provided on each tab joint (32) of the current collector (30). For example, Fig. 7 illustrates an embodiment in which the through holes (HC) are provided in each area corresponding to the tab joint (32).

[0110] In this way, when the through hole (HC) is provided on the tab joint portion (32), the venting gas and / or flame generated from the electrode assembly (10) can be smoothly discharged to the outside through the through hole (HC). In particular, the outer peripheral area of ​​the electrode assembly (10) is covered by the tab joint portion (32) of the current collector (30), and when a plurality of through holes (HC) are provided on the tab joint portion (32), the venting gas and / or flame generated in the outer peripheral area of ​​the electrode assembly (10) can be smoothly discharged upward.

[0111] However, if too many through holes (HC) are provided on the tab joint (32), the area where the tab joint (32) and the electrode assembly (10) can be welded may be excessively reduced. In this case, considering that the welding area between the tab joint (32) and the electrode assembly (10) may be reduced and the bonding strength may be weakened, an appropriate balance between the area of ​​the tab joint (32) and the number of through holes (HC) formed is required.

[0112]

[0113] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to FIG. 8, the through hole (HC) may be provided on the support part (31) of the current collector (30) and further provided on the tab coupling part (32) of the current collector (30). Referring to FIG. 9 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the through hole (HC) may be formed in a boundary area between the support part (31) and the tab coupling part (32) and further provided on the support part (31). In addition, although not shown in the drawing, as another embodiment of the present invention, the through hole (HC) may be formed in a boundary area between the support part (31) and the tab coupling part (32) and further provided on the tab coupling part (32). Furthermore, the position at which the through hole (HC) is provided is not limited to the above embodiment, and may be provided at any position or combination of positions on the current collector (30) depending on the situation, and such embodiments will be considered to be included in the scope of the present invention.

[0114]

[0115] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the notch line (NL) may be configured to have a curved shape. For example, referring to FIGS. 4 to 9, the notch line (NL) may be configured in a convex curved shape toward the center of the current collector (30). Alternatively, although not illustrated in the drawings, the notch line (NL) may be configured in a concave curved shape toward the center of the current collector (30). Alternatively, the notch line (NL) may be configured in an approximately straight shape. That is, the shape of the notch line (NL) is not limited to a single shape and may be configured in various shapes, and such various embodiments may be included in the scope of the present invention.

[0116]

[0117] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the tab coupling portion (32) may be formed so that the width at a position spaced apart from the connection portion toward the longitudinal end of the tab coupling portion (32) by a predetermined distance is greater than the width at the connection portion between the tab coupling portion (32) and the support portion (31). For example, referring to FIGS. 4 to 9, the tab coupling portion (32) may be configured to have an approximately fan-shaped shape in which the width at a position spaced apart from the connection portion toward the longitudinal end of the tab coupling portion (32) by a predetermined distance is greater than the width at the connection portion between the tab coupling portion (32) and the support portion (31).

[0118] According to this structure, the tab joint (32) can be configured to have a narrow width at the connection portion between the tab joint (32) and the support (31), and accordingly, the tab joint (32) can be configured to have a low strength at the connection portion between the tab joint (32) and the support (31). Accordingly, when a thermal runaway phenomenon occurs inside the battery cell (1) and a flame is emitted, a strong pressure is applied to the connection portion between the tab joint (32) and the support (31), and a fracture may occur at the connection portion between the tab joint (32) and the support (31). Accordingly, the support (31) of the current collector (30) may be separated from the tab joint (32). That is, when a flame is emitted inside the battery cell (1), the connection portion between the tab joint (32) and the support (31) is fractured, and the tab joint (32) of the current collector (30) may be separated. As a result, the flame generated inside the battery cell (1) can be smoothly discharged to the outside due to the breakage of the connection portion between the tab joint (32) and the support (31).

[0119] In addition, according to this structure, the width at a position spaced a predetermined distance from the connecting portion toward the longitudinal end of the tab joint (32) is formed larger, thereby securing a wide overall cross-sectional area of ​​the tab joint (32). That is, since the shape of the tab joint (32) becomes approximately fan-shaped, the contact area between the tab joint (32) and the electrode assembly (10) can be secured wide. Accordingly, welding of the tab joint (32) and the electrode assembly (10) can be performed smoothly. In addition, since the contact area between the tab joint (32) and the electrode assembly (10) is widened, the internal resistance of the battery can be effectively reduced.

[0120]

[0121] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the longitudinal end of the tab coupling portion (32) may have a roughly arc shape so as to correspond to the inner surface of the battery housing (20). For example, referring to FIGS. 4 to 9, the longitudinal end of the tab coupling portion (32) may be arc-shaped, so that the tab coupling portion (32) may be configured to have a roughly fan-shaped shape.

[0122] According to this structure, since the longitudinal end of the tab joint (32) can be configured to be further away from the center of the current collector (30), the overall cross-sectional area of ​​the tab joint (32) can be secured wide. That is, since the shape of the tab joint (32) becomes approximately fan-shaped, the contact area between the tab joint (32) and the electrode assembly (10) can be secured wide. Accordingly, welding of the tab joint (32) and the electrode assembly (10) can be performed smoothly. In addition, since the contact area between the tab joint (32) and the electrode assembly (10) is widened, the internal resistance of the battery can be effectively reduced.

[0123]

[0124] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the tab coupling portion (32) may be configured to have a wider width than the housing coupling portion (33). For example, referring to FIGS. 4 to 9, the tab coupling portion (32) may be formed to have a wide, approximately fan-shaped shape, while the housing coupling portion (33) may be configured to have a roughly rectangular, band-shaped shape.

[0125] With this structure, the overall cross-sectional area of ​​the tab joint (32) can be secured wide. That is, since the shape of the tab joint (32) is configured to have a wider width than the housing joint (33), the contact area between the tab joint (32) and the electrode assembly (10) can be secured wide. Accordingly, welding of the tab joint (32) and the electrode assembly (10) can be performed smoothly. In addition, since the contact area between the tab joint (32) and the electrode assembly (10) is widened, the internal resistance of the battery can be effectively reduced.

[0126] Meanwhile, in the above, as an example of securing a large area of ​​the tab joint (32), the shape of the tab joint (32) is described as being roughly fan-shaped, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and any shape that can secure a contact area between the tab joint (32) and the electrode assembly (10) to a certain level or more is included in the scope of the present invention.

[0127]

[0128] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the support portion (31) and the tab coupling portion (32) are disposed on the upper portion of the electrode assembly (10). Here, the tab coupling portion (32) can be coupled with the first non-coated portion (11) of the electrode assembly (10). The tab coupling portion (32) can be coupled to the first non-coated portion (11) by welding, for example, along the radial direction of the electrode assembly (10). The tab coupling portion (32) can be welded to the first non-coated portion (11) in a state approximately parallel to the lower surface of the battery housing (20), for example. A welding bead can be formed between the first non-coated portion (11) and the tab coupling portion (32). The welding bead can form, for example, a welding pattern having an approximately linear shape extending along the radial direction of the electrode assembly (10). The welding pattern can have, for example, a line shape in which point welding is connected. The above welding pattern may include one pattern or two or more patterns extending along the radial direction of the electrode assembly (10).

[0129] For example, the welding pattern may be configured to be approximately perpendicular to the notch line (NL). Alternatively, as described above, the welding pattern may have a substantially straight shape in a radial direction from the center of the current collector (30). At this time, the notch line (NL) may be configured to have a curved shape having a curvature that is convexly formed toward the center of the current collector (30). Here, the tangent of the notch line (NL) at the point where the distance from the welding pattern to the notch line (NL) is the shortest may be configured to be approximately perpendicular to the welding pattern. That is, the welding pattern and the notch line (NL) may be configured to be approximately perpendicular.

[0130] With this structure, ease of welding can be ensured during the process. Furthermore, with this structure, since the welding pattern is formed along the radial direction of the electrode assembly (10), current can be uniformly flowed from the electrode assembly (10). Furthermore, with the above structure, the current path can be shortened, effectively reducing resistance within the battery.

[0131]

[0132] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 9, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the tab coupling portion (32) and the housing coupling portion (33) are indirectly connected via the support portion (31), and are not directly connected to each other. Therefore, when an external impact is applied to the battery cell (1) of the present invention, the possibility of damage occurring to the joint portion between the current collector (30) and the electrode assembly (10) and the joint portion between the current collector (30) and the battery housing (20) can be minimized.

[0133] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to FIGS. 4 to 9, at least one tab coupling portion (32) and / or housing coupling portion (33) may be provided. At least one tab coupling portion (32) and at least one housing coupling portion (33) may be arranged, for example, in a roughly radial, cross-shaped, or a combination thereof, with respect to the center of the current collector (30). In another aspect, each of the plurality of housing coupling portions (33) may be arranged between adjacent tab coupling portions (32).

[0134] Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the support portion (31) and the plurality of tab-connecting portions (32) are disposed on the upper portion of the electrode assembly (10). For example, the tab-connecting portions (32) are connected to the first non-coated portion (11) of the electrode assembly (10). The tab-connecting portions (32) may be connected to the first non-coated portion (11) by welding, for example, along the radial direction of the electrode assembly (10). The tab-connecting portions (32) may be connected to the first non-coated portion (11) by welding, for example, in a state approximately parallel to the lower surface of the battery housing (20). The weld formed between the first non-coated portion (11) and the tab-connecting portions (32) may form, for example, a weld pattern having an approximately linear shape extending along the radial direction of the electrode assembly (10).

[0135] According to one embodiment of the present invention, not only the tab coupling portion (32), but also the support portion (31) may be coupled to the first non-coated portion (11). The tab coupling portion (32) and the first non-coated portion (11) may be coupled by welding. The support portion (31) and the tab coupling portion (32) are positioned lower than the beading portion (21) when the beading portion (21) is formed in the battery housing (20).

[0136] For example, the support member (31) may be provided with a current collector hole (H2) formed at a position corresponding to a winding hole (H1) formed at approximately the center of the electrode assembly (10). The winding hole (H1) and the current collector hole (H2), which are connected to each other, may function as a passage for inserting a welding rod or irradiating a laser beam for welding between the terminal (50) and the second current collector (30) or welding between the terminal and a lead tab (not shown). The current collector hole (H2) may have a diameter that is substantially the same as or larger than the winding hole (H1) of the electrode assembly (10) so as not to obscure the winding hole (H1) formed in the core of the electrode assembly (10). If the diameter of the current collector hole (H2) is excessively smaller than the diameter of the winding hole (H1), the hole formed in the winding hole (H1) may be covered, which may reduce the injection property, and it may also be difficult to secure sufficient space for insertion of a device for welding or laser irradiation. In consideration of this, the diameter of the current collector hole (H2) and the diameter of the winding hole (H1) may be appropriately adjusted.

[0137] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of tab coupling portions (32) may have a shape extending approximately radially from the support portion (31) of the current collector (30) toward the side wall of the battery housing (20). Each of the plurality of tab coupling portions (32) may be positioned spaced apart from each other along the periphery of the support portion (31).

[0138] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of housing coupling portions (33) may have a shape extending approximately radially from a support portion (31) of a current collector (30) toward a side wall of a battery housing (20). Each of the plurality of housing coupling portions (33) may be positioned spaced apart from each other along the periphery of the support portion (31). At least one housing coupling portion (33) may be positioned between adjacent tab coupling portions (32).

[0139]

[0140] For example, the housing coupling portion (33) may extend from the support portion (31) and be electrically coupled to the inner surface of the battery housing (20). For example, the housing coupling portion (33) may be coupled to, for example, a beading portion (21) on the inner surface of the battery housing (20). In particular, the housing coupling portion (33) may be coupled to the upper surface of the beading portion (21).

[0141] Alternatively, the housing coupling portion (33) may include a contact portion coupled to the inner surface of the battery housing (20) and a connecting portion connecting the contact portion and the support portion (31).

[0142] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the contact portion is coupled on the inner surface of the battery housing (20). In the case where a beading portion (21) is formed on the battery housing (20), the contact portion may be coupled on the beading portion (21). In this case, for stable contact and coupling, both the beading portion (21) and the contact portion may have a shape extending along a direction approximately parallel to the lower surface of the battery housing (20), i.e., a direction approximately perpendicular to the side wall of the battery housing (20).

[0143] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the contact portion may be welded to the upper surface of the beading portion (21). That is, the weld portion may be formed in the upper surface area of ​​the beading portion (21). The weld portion formed between the contact portion and the beading portion (21) may be formed narrower than the upper surface of the beading portion (21). Welding for joining the battery housing (20) and the current collector (30) may be applied, for example, laser welding, ultrasonic welding, or spot welding.

[0144]

[0145] Fig. 10 is a drawing for explaining a case in which thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell (1) to which a conventional collector (30) is applied.

[0146] The conventional battery cell (1) disclosed in Fig. 10 includes a current collector (30), and the current collector (30) does not include any other holes other than the current collector hole (H2) located at the center. According to the structure of the conventional current collector (30), a flame generated in the electrode assembly (10) is blocked by the current collector (30) and cannot be smoothly discharged. Accordingly, a problem may arise in which the flame moves toward the beading portion (21) located in the vicinity of the electrode assembly (10) and the current collector (30), thereby generating a pinhole in the beading portion (21). If a pinhole is formed in the beading portion (21), the possibility of directly damaging other battery cells (1) located around the battery cell (1) in which the fire occurred increases, and ultimately, the spread of the fire to other battery cells (1) becomes unavoidable.

[0147]

[0148] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining a case in which thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0149] A battery cell (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention disclosed in FIG. 11 includes a current collector (30) having a fracture portion (34). The current collector (30) may have a through hole (HC). With this structure, a flame generated in the electrode assembly (10) can be discharged to the outside of the electrode assembly (10) through the through hole (HC). Accordingly, the flame can be prevented from progressing toward the beading portion (21). Consequently, according to the present invention, the beading portion (21) can be prevented from being damaged by the flame. Alternatively, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the formation of a pinhole in the beading portion (21) can be effectively prevented.

[0150]

[0151] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining another case in which thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining another case in which thermal runaway occurs in a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] The collector (30) according to FIGS. 12 and 13 is similar to the collector (30) of the previous embodiment, so duplicate descriptions of components that are substantially the same or similar to those of the previous embodiment will be omitted, and the following description will focus on differences from the previous embodiment.

[0153] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to FIG. 12, a notch line (NL) including a plurality of notches may be formed at a boundary area between the support portion (31) and the tab joint portion (32). With this structure, when venting gas formed by thermal runaway or the like from the electrode assembly (10) side is ejected upward, the tab joint portion (32) may be bent upward based on the notch line (NL) by receiving upward pressure from the venting gas. When the tab joint portion (32) is bent upward, a flame generated in the electrode assembly (10) may be smoothly discharged through the empty space formed between the electrode assembly (10) and the tab joint portion (32).

[0154] According to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a case where the venting gas is ejected more strongly than in the case of FIG. 12. In the embodiment of FIG. 13, the tab joint (32) is subjected to upward pressure due to the venting gas, and as a result, the tab joint (32) can be separated from the current collector (30) based on the notch line (NL). As a result, the flame generated in the electrode assembly (10) can be smoothly discharged through the empty space formed by the tab joint (32) being separated.

[0155] In this way, in one embodiment of the present invention, a flame generated in the electrode assembly (10) can be smoothly discharged to the outside through a structure in which a through hole (HC) and / or a notch line (NL) is provided at the boundary between the support portion (31) and the tab joint portion (32). Accordingly, the flame can be prevented from spreading to the beading portion (21) located near the side of the electrode assembly (10) and the current collector (30). Consequently, according to the structure of the present invention, damage such as a pinhole phenomenon can be prevented from occurring in the beading portion (21).

[0156]

[0157] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the housing cover (40) may be provided with a venting portion (41) formed to prevent an increase in internal pressure due to gas generated inside the battery housing (20). The venting portion (41) may be configured to be broken when the internal pressure of the battery housing (20) increases above a certain level. For example, the venting portion (41) may be formed in a part of the housing cover (40) and may be a structurally weaker area than the surrounding area so that it may be easily broken when internal pressure is applied. The venting portion (41) may be, for example, a area having a thinner thickness compared to the surrounding area. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the venting portion (41) may form a closed loop having an approximately circular shape.

[0158] According to one embodiment of the present invention, referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the housing cover (40) covers the opening formed on one side of the battery housing (20). The housing cover (40) can be fixed by a crimping portion (22) formed on the upper end of the battery housing (20). In this case, a sealing gasket (G1) may be interposed between the battery housing (20) and the housing cover (40) and between the current collector (30) and the housing cover (40) in order to improve the fixing force and the sealing property of the battery housing (20). In this case, the contact portion may be interposed between the beading portion (21) of the battery housing (20) and the sealing gasket (G1). In this way, the contact portion interposed between the beading portion (21) and the sealing gasket (G1) can be fixed by bending the crimping portion (22) extending upward from the beading portion (21).

[0159] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a battery module includes a plurality of battery cells having as basic unit cells a battery cell to which various embodiments of the present invention are applied, wherein a flame generated inside the battery cell when a thermal runaway occurs can be smoothly discharged, and includes a battery assembly in which a plurality of battery cells are electrically connected and a module housing that accommodates the battery assembly. Alternatively, the battery module is used to supply power to an ESS (Energy Storage System).

[0160] FIG. 14 is a drawing for explaining a battery pack (3) including a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 14, a battery pack (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery assembly in which a plurality of battery cells (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention are electrically connected, and a pack housing (2) that accommodates the battery cells. In the drawing of the present invention, components such as a bus bar, a cooling unit, and a power terminal for electrical connection are omitted for convenience of illustration.

[0162]

[0163] Fig. 15 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle (5) including the battery pack (3) of Fig. 14.

[0164] Referring to FIG. 15, a vehicle (5) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle, and includes a battery pack (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (5) includes a four-wheeled vehicle and a two-wheeled vehicle. The vehicle (5) operates by receiving power from the battery pack (3) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0165] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and variations are possible by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims to be described below.

Claims

1. An electrode assembly comprising a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator interposed therebetween, which are wound around a winding axis to define a core and an outer peripheral surface, wherein the first electrode includes a first uncoated portion on which an active material layer is not coated along the winding direction; A battery housing having an opening on one side and accommodating the electrode assembly through the opening; A current collector including a support portion positioned on the upper portion of the electrode assembly, a tab coupling portion extending from the support portion and coupled to the first non-conductive portion, and a housing coupling portion extending from the support portion and electrically coupled to the inner surface of the battery housing. Including, A battery cell characterized in that a fracture portion having a lower strength than the surrounding area is provided at the boundary between the support portion and the tab joint portion.

2. In paragraph 1, The above-mentioned fractured part is, A battery cell characterized by comprising a notch line including a plurality of notches.

3. In paragraph 2, The above-mentioned entire house, A battery cell characterized by including a through hole configured to penetrate the entire body.

4. In paragraph 3, A battery cell characterized in that the above through hole is located on the notch line.

5. In paragraph 3, A battery cell characterized in that the above through hole is located at the center of the boundary between the support portion and the tab joint portion.

6. In paragraph 3, A battery cell characterized in that at least one of the above through holes is provided on the support member.

7. In paragraph 3, A battery cell characterized in that at least one of the above through holes is provided on the tab joint.

8. In paragraph 2, A battery cell characterized in that the above notch line has a curved shape.

9. In paragraph 1, The above tab joint is, A battery cell characterized by having a width greater than the above housing joint.

10. In paragraph 2, The above first blank portion and the tab joint portion, A battery cell characterized in that it is joined by welding along the radial direction of the electrode assembly.

11. In paragraph 10, A welding bead is formed between the first blank portion and the tab joint portion, The above welding bead is, A battery cell characterized in that it forms a welding pattern in a straight shape extending along the radial direction of the electrode assembly.

12. In paragraph 11, A battery cell characterized in that the above welding pattern is configured to be perpendicular to the notch line.

13. It includes a support portion arranged on the upper part of the electrode assembly, a tab coupling portion extending from the support portion and electrically coupled to the electrode assembly, and a housing coupling portion extending from the support portion and electrically coupled to the inner surface of a battery housing in which the electrode assembly is accommodated. A current collector characterized in that a fracture portion having a lower strength than the surrounding area is provided at the boundary between the support portion and the tab joint portion.

14. A battery pack comprising at least one battery cell as described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

15. A vehicle characterized by including at least one battery pack as described in paragraph 14.

16. A battery module characterized by including at least one battery cell as described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

17. An energy storage system characterized by including at least one battery module described in Article 16.

18. An electrode assembly in which a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator interposed therebetween are wound around a winding axis to define a core and an outer peripheral surface, wherein the first electrode includes a first uncoated portion on which an active material layer is not coated along the winding direction; A battery housing having an opening on one side and accommodating the electrode assembly through the opening; A current collector including a support portion disposed on the upper portion of the electrode assembly, a tab coupling portion extending from the support portion and coupled to the first non-conductive portion, and a housing coupling portion extending from the support portion and electrically coupled to the inner surface of the battery housing, A battery cell characterized in that a passage is formed in the above-mentioned collector to allow flames to be discharged to the outside when thermal runaway occurs in the above-mentioned electrode assembly.

19. In paragraph 18, A battery cell characterized in that the passage includes a fracture portion configured to have lower strength than the surrounding area at the boundary between the support portion and the tab joint portion.

20. In paragraph 19, A battery cell characterized in that the above-mentioned fracture portion includes a notch line including a plurality of notches.

Images